Common Medical Conditions

The topics included here represent common health concerns for college students and medical conditions treated here at the Wellness Center.

Chalazion—A small bump that develops on the upper or lower eyelid. It is caused by inflamed meibomian glands that make the oil in tears.

Conjunctivitis—Sometimes called pink eye, this is an inflammation of the blood vessels in the conjunctiva, the membrane that covers the sclera and inside of the eyelids. Conjunctivitis may be caused by bacteria or viruses, making it very contagious.

Blepharitis—An inflammation of the edges of the eyelids involving hair follicles and glands, which help to wet the surface of the eye.

Stye—A noncontagious, bacterial infection of one of the sebaceous glands of the eyelid, typically tender to the touch. A stye looks like a small, red bump either on the eyelid or on the edge of the eyelid.

Deviated Septum Sore Throat

Otitis Media Strep Throat

Otitis Externa Mononucleosis

Tonsillitis

Acne—A disease that affects the skin’s oil glands. The small holes in your skin (pores) connect to oil glands under the skin. These glands make a substance called sebum. The pores connect to the glands by a canal called a follicle. When the follicle of a skin gland clogs up, a pimple grows. Acne is the most common skin disease; an estimated 80 percent of all people have acne at some point. Learn More

Cellulitis is an infection of the skin caused by bacteria. Learn More

Eczema—Also known as atopic dermatitis, this is a long-term skin disease. The most common symptoms are dry and itchy skin, rashes on the face, inside the elbows, behind the knees, and on the hands and feet. Learn More

Hives—Red and sometimes itchy bumps on your skin. An allergic reaction to a drug or food usually causes them. People who have other allergies are more likely to get hives than other people. Other causes include infections and stress. Hives are very common. They usually go away on their own, but if you have a serious case, you might need medical help. Learn More

Impetigo—A skin infection caused by bacteria. Usually the cause is staphylococcal (staph), but sometimes streptococcus (strep) can cause it, too. It usually starts when bacteria get into a break in the skin, such as a cut, scratch, or insect bite. Symptoms start with red or pimple-like sores surrounded by red skin. These sores usually occur on your face, arms, and legs. The sores fill with pus, then break open after a few days and form a thick crust. Impetigo is treated with antibiotics. Learn More

Pityriasis rosea—A scaly, reddish-pink skin rash that usually starts with a larger patch known as a hearald patch. Smaller spots will develop on your body days to weeks later and may be itchy. Pityriasis rosea usually lasts 1 to 3 months and usually never comes back. The rash usually goes away on its own. No treatment can cure it, but medicine can help relieve the itching. Your doctor might suggest antihistamine pills (one brand name: Benadryl), a steroid cream, calamine lotion or zinc oxide cream to relieve the itching. Learn More

Tinea also known as ring worm is a fungal infection. Ringworm infection can affect both humans and animals. The infection initially presents with red patches on affected areas of the skin and later spreads to other parts of the body. The infection may affect the skin of the scalp, feet, groin, beard, or other areas. Learn More

Acute gastroenteritis commonly known as AGE is a sudden onset of vomiting, diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps. AGE can be caused by viral or bacterial infections. Diarrhea is also a symptom of AGE. Diarrhea and vomiting is the way the body gets rid of the virus or bacteria. Contamination from the diarrhea and vomiting is usually how AGE is passed from one person to the next.

Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) happens when stomach contents come back up into the esophagus causing heartburn (also called acid reflux). Treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) depends on the severity of symptoms and may include lifestyle changes, medicines, or surgery. Learn More

Celiac disease is a digestive disorder that damages the small intestine. People with celiac disease cannot eat gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. The disease can cause long-term digestive problems and keep you from getting nutrients you need. Treatment for celiac disease includes primarily eating a gluten free diet. Learn More

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a group of symptoms that occur together, including repeated pain in your abdomen and changes in your bowel movements, which may be diarrhea, constipation, or both. Treatment for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) include changes in what you eat and other lifestyle changes, medicines, probiotics, and mental health therapies. You may have to try a few treatments to see what works best for you. Learn More

Ligament Injuries to Knee